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School Holiday Deals & Experiences

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Going with the family?

We’re often asked about school holiday travel and with good reason. It’s a great way to get out there and experience the world with your family.

There are a variety of tours, cruises and experiences that cater for those travelling in numbers. Check out some of our favourites below!

Our family travel specialists

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Laura Simpson

House of Travel Taupo

When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever.

I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered.

Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!

Laura

Andy Gosnell

House of Travel Christchurch City

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team—and Andy is ours. His approachable, honest style fosters strong relationships and consistently positive experiences for clients, suppliers, and colleagues alike.

Travel has always been a defining part of Andy’s life. He caught the travel bug early - 3 formative years of living in the USA during his childhood hardwired his love for travel. Since then, he has taken every opportunity to see the world, often venturing to remote and remarkable destinations. Whether trekking through the Patagonian Andes, wandering the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread around the globe, Andy is truly in his element.

With nearly ten years in the travel industry, Andy has had the opportunity to experience an exceptional range of destinations and build deep, practical knowledge. No matter where you want to go, he brings expert insight and thoughtful advice to help make your journey genuinely unforgettable.

“I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything—you're only limited by how far your imagination can stretch.”

Years in the industry: 10
Countries visited: 12
Favourite destination: Amalfi Coast
Next destination on the list: Poland

“Not all those who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien

Why I Love Travel

The places I see and the people I meet—travel truly is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from different cultures and walks of life. Life is short; travel often.

My Travel Tips

If you are always early, you are never late.
Pre-book as much as possible before departure and schedule rest days on longer trips.
Live courageously—100% of the opportunities you don’t take are missed.

My Top Three Favourite Destinations

Italy
The food, history, people, dramatic coastlines, and mountains—Italy deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.

USA
With its extraordinary diversity of cultures and experiences, you could spend a lifetime exploring the United States and still not see it all.

Patagonia
Challenging to reach, but the dramatic landscapes that greet you make every moment of the journey worthwhile.

What’s in My Suitcase

Kindle / E-reader – Lightweight, easy to pack, and long-lasting battery life; an essential on every trip.
Noise-cancelling headphones – Ideal for busy airports and long-haul flights.
Travel plug adapter – Easy to forget, but absolutely essential.

Andy

Cherone Wilson

House of Travel Howick

Travel has been a constant in my life since my OE started with a classic Contiki trip through Europe, followed by working in London and traveling through the UK, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. I also spent a year working in Iceland—a now trendy travel hotspot—before returning to New Zealand.

In 2000, my family moved to the middle east living in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which provided an exciting base for exploring nearby destinations. We had unforgettable holidays in Austria, France, the UK, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.

Returning to New Zealand marked a new chapter of travel, this time without children. Recent adventures have included Vietnam, India, China, Peru, and Cambodia.

My travel career started with Singapore Airlines and since 2019 I’ve been consulting at House of Travel in Howick. I love talking and connecting with clients, listening to their travel dreams and turning them into memorable experiences.

Whether you're looking for an island getaway, relaxing cruise or an exciting adventure, I’m here to help you plan the perfect trip.

Travel is an adventure that brings the world to life.

Cherone

Kimberley McCormick

House of Travel Botany Junction

Think of me as your travel partner-in-crime. We’ll map out every detail, so your trip is stress-free, seamless, and totally you. From hidden gems to bucket-list adventures, we’ll turn your travel dreams into reality — passport stamps and epic memories included!

Kimberley

Family travel blogs

5 epic Hong Kong experiences you’ll never forget

Unmissable Adventures & Insider Secrets for Your Ultimate Hong Kong Escape

Italy: Food, Glorious Food!

If you’re heading to Italy, come hungry. From silky carbonara in Rome to truffle-dusted risotto in the north, these are the bites worth booking your flights around.

Fiji first timers guide

Whether you’re planning your first holiday to Fiji or your tenth, Fiji warms the heart and feeds the soul with a diversity of experiences catering for all tastes and ages.

Top tips for your ultimate Queensland holiday

Queensland is the perfect destination for every type of traveller. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family getaway, a romantic retreat, or an epic road trip, this stunning state has it all!

Dreaming of a white Christmas ... in Santa's Lapland

Lapland, Europe

An All-New Disney Adventure

Disney Cruise

Spot wildlife from above in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, Asia

Canal boating along the Canal du Midi

France, Europe

Walk the Dalmatian Coast

Croatia, Europe

Why Vietnam is so hot right now

Vietnam is storm of culture, colour and cuisine and it is one of the fastest growing Asian destinations for Kiwi travellers right now. So why is Vietnam so hot right now?

Quick guide & tips for first-time travellers to Africa

So, if you’re deciding on your next travel destination and haven't made up your mind yet, think about taking a trip to The Mother Continent, especially if it’s your first time.

The best shopping on the Gold Coast

If you check more luggage on the return flight...well, we've been there too!

5 family resorts in the Gold Coast

We don’t use the ‘F-word’ at House of Travel (favourite) but we know what’s popular, and what our customers love, and these five Gold Coast hotels are always top-dog for family holidays.

12 free (or nearly) things to do on the Gold Coast

Aside from hitting the famous beach, these are the very best low-cost gems on the Gold Coast.

Do’s and dont's for Gold Coast theme parks

Here's how to make the most of your time in the Gold Coast's famous theme parks.

Top 9 things to do with the family in the Gold Coast

The ultimate 7-day Sunshine Coast itinerary

Sunshine, sea breezes and serenity. The Sunshine Coast blends golden beaches with lush green hinterland – it’s like summer never ends.

Where to shop, eat and play in Anaheim

With two Disney Theme Parks – Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park – and an energetic entertainment, dining and shopping district, Anaheim is one of the favourite holiday destinations on the West Coast.

9 Reasons to visit Disneyland Resort in California

Disney’s magic is unlike anything else. Here’s what you don’t want to miss!

Top things to see & do in North America

So the USA is on your list? Good stuff. With a country of such diversity, every state feels completely different. And then there's Canada — a Kiwi fave. Here are a few of our favourite things to see and do in both countries.

7 reasons a beach holiday is actually good for you

Ready for the Best. Holiday. Ever! You’re physically and mentally better off after trading your smartphone for a little sand and sun. Here’s the proof.

The top 5 South Pacific beaches

Somewhere tropical…somewhere warm, where the waves crash on the white sand beaches and afternoons are spent lazing in warm waters, cocktail in hand. Here are a few of our favourite beaches.

Top 5 family destinations in the Pacific Islands

The best family destinations offer family-friendly facilities, great kids clubs, babysitting services and spacious family accommodation so that you get a holiday that is as relaxing for you as it is exciting for the kids.

A guide to family holidays in Fiji

Here are our favourite resorts for families—every one offering an unforgettable holiday for travellers of all ages.

Top 10 things to do in Rome

Rome is one of the world’s most captivating cities – where ancient ruins and timeless legends rub shoulders with the chic buzz of modern Europe. It’s a place that wears its history proudly, yet never stops reinventing itself.

Why we love Singapore

Singapore is so much more than just a stopover destination. It is a thrilling kaleidoscope of cultures, flavours and experiences – all in one friendly, easy-to-navigate destination. Whether you’re keen to indulge in mouth-watering dishes each night or zip across town to your next adventure, this city is bursting with everything you need for an unforgettable holiday.

Thailand travel tips: What to know before you go

Ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Thailand? From vibrant cities and serene beaches to rich cultural experiences and adventure-filled excursions, our guide has you covered.